Ole Miss Family Leadership Council members came together for their fall semester meeting Sept. 23, interacted with Chancellor Jeff Vitter and heard his vision for the University of Mississippi’s future.

Speakers at the meeting also included John T Edge, director of the Southern Foodways Alliance; Robert Saarnio, director of the University Museum and Historic Houses; and Brandi Hephner LaBanc, vice chancellor for student affairs.

The purpose of the Family Leadership Council is to encourage communication between the university and parents in order to improve the Ole Miss experience for students. Council members provide advice and guidance to the Division of Student Affairs and University Development on programs related to parents as well as serve as liaisons between the university and parents.

To be a part of the council, parents of Ole Miss students donate $2,500 annually and participate in the fall and spring meetings. Council members review requests submitted by the Division of Student Affairs and determine which projects to support with their combined gifts. They look for projects that will make a positive impact on students’ experiences, such as those related to student safety.

“These families are excellent advocates for Ole Miss. They’re already paying for their children’s tuition, books, housing and other needs, and they choose give an additional $2,500 annual gift to serve on the council,” said Brett Barefoot, director of parent development. “It’s obvious that these council members care deeply about their children’s campus experience. The university community is grateful for this wonderful support, input and involvement.”

The spring meeting is set for April 28, 2017. To learn more about the Ole Miss Parents Council, contact Brett Barefoot, director of parent development, at bmbarefo@olemiss.edu or 662-915-2711.